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Biography

At 21 Leo Barbe was shot twice point-blank by the hand of another youth and left for dead in an alley way. A mail man on his morning route tripped over Leo’s body and performed CPR to save his life. Leo then endured a gruelling one and a half years of heart wrenching mental and physical recovery before hearing the life changing voice of Martin Luther King Jr. He then travelled from the depth of darkness to the heights of self actualization while creating something that has changed the lives of thousands of youth and counting.

Now at 26 Leo is an award winning activist, a published author, professional speaker and a national figure on youth empowerment. His memoir “Slaying the Dragon” will open your eyes to the ripple effects of violence and extend your ideas of hope and survival. Throughout the roller coaster ride of his journey you will find out what it takes to face your fear and slay your dragon. With Leo fueling the TDS movement he is on a crusade to end youth violence from its core and provide strength and encouragement in a way that will shape the foundation of our youth.

Links (2)

Testimonials (1)

“Leo Barbe’s Think Don’t Shoot presentation at the Boys and Girls Clubs of Canada’s 2011 National Youth Conference was amazing! Leo’s charismatic, no-holds-back presentation style and real-life story grab the audience’s attention and reel them in so that his powerful, positive message hits home. Youth and staff at the conference raved about Leo and continue (even 3 months later!) to share his message of hope and ability to bring change through their Clubs, on Facebook and in their communities. We would love to be able to have Leo share his message with all Boys and Girls Clubs of Canada members after seeing the impact he had at the conference. Thanks Leo!”

Sample Talks (4)

Connecting youth with their Emotional Intelligence

Instilling the fundamentals of coping with post-traumatic stress (PTSD).

Inspiring positive change on 3 specific systems in our society;

Leo speaks on providing youth with new and exciting ways to positively change their futures. By understanding the 3 pillars of TDS, youth are able to understand what it takes to be strong and independent community leaders.

HomeSchoolCommunity

Focusing on both sides of the gun

Empowering victims of violence & Educating violent youth on the ripple effects of their violence

Think Don't Shoot - Youth

The presentation

The Think Don’t Shoot movement is being sparked in your community. Leo is providing educational and entertaining character building presentations to elementary schools, high schools, colleges, conferences, youth organizations and community centres across southern Ontario. The presentation highlights the fundamentals of TDS while Leo commands the stage with his captivating presence and unique twist.

Leo has been able to introduce more of his spoken word and Hip Hop skills to t